Seattle explosion levels buildings, injures firefighters

Crews were responding to reports of a natural-gas leak when the explosion occurred along a main thoroughfare north of downtown, Seattle Fire Department spokeswoman Corey Orvold said.

Video surveillance from the Olive and Grape Mediterranean Restaurant showed a bright flash at 1:43 a.m. and then the room shakes as debris falls from the ceiling.

Bike shop owner Davey Oil said he arrived soon after the fire trucks.

Chocolati Cafe manager Darla Weidman said she was relieved the blast occurred overnight instead of 11 a.m., when the shop sometimes is packed with people.

“I know neighbors will do everything they can to support these businesses as they begin the long and challenging task to recover and repair from this incident,” Seattle Mayor Ed Murray said in a statement.

Puget Sound Energy spokeswoman Akiko Oda said gas service for the impacted buildings was shut off about an hour after the blast and the shutdown was later expanded.

Oda said it will take time to determine what caused the explosion, and the utility will be working with the Seattle Fire Department in the investigation.